Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio said he would not be watching tonight’s Premier League match between relegation rivals Wigan and Swansea – but then admitted he was telling porkies.

After his side’s 1-1 draw with Stoke last night, Di Canio was asked in his interview with Sky Sports whether he would be settling down in front of the TV to see if Michael Laudrup’s Swans would do them a favour.

Di Canio replied: “Will I watch Wigan? No, last time I did that they won. I want to relax tomorrow!”

But he added: “I am Pinocchio!”

Unlike the original Pinocchio, when Di Canio tells fibs his arm mysteriously starts to extend above his head.